Iran is holding parliamentary elections today (Friday) in which the extreme conservatives are expected to strengthen their power. The polls show that only about 41% of those with the right to vote will bother to go to the polls and choose between candidates who offer very little change.
Khamenei accused Iran's "enemies" of trying to create despair among Iranian voters. The desperation in the Iranian public also stems from the economic crisis, a consequence of the American sanctions, mismanagement and corruption among the Shiite regime.